Most freestanding wardrobe problems don’t come from the wardrobe itself. They come from poor planning.
At NZ Wardrobes, we work with wardrobes every day, from built-in wardrobes through to freestanding and flatpack options. Here are some steps to take when choosing a new freestanding wardrobe that works in your bedroom and meets your storage needs:
Step 1: Decide Where You Want It to Go
Stand in the room and think about how you use the space. Where do you get dressed? Which side of the bed do you walk around most?
You should place the wardrobe where it doesn't block light, crowd the bed, or turn your usual path into a sideways shuffle. Even if the wardrobe 'technically' fits, it can be in the wrong spot if it messes with the flow of the room.
Tip: In most bedrooms, the best position is the wall you don’t immediately face when you walk in.
Step 2: Take Measurements
Next, you need to measure the usable space the freestanding wardrobe can realistically take up in the chosen space.
Think about how much room you need to walk past the bed, and if drawers, wardrobe doors, and bedroom doors will collide with anything when open.
Measure the width of the wall. Then the height from the floor to the ceiling. And finally, the depth out from the wall. Take each measurement in at least two places, because walls, floors, and ceilings are rarely straight.
Tip: Allow a minimum of 800–900mm clear walking space in front of the wardrobe.
Step 3: Check Access, Delivery, and Assembly
Aside from fitting in your room, the wardrobe also needs to make it to your room when you bring it home. Measure your ceiling heights, hallway widths, doorways, stairwells, and any tight corners. If it can’t physically get into the room, it shouldn’t even be considered.
It's also important to know if the wardrobe comes flatpacked or pre-assembled.
Tip: Plan for the smallest measurement, not the biggest. If it fits the tightest point, it’ll fit everywhere else.
Step 4: Create a Shortlist of Wardrobes
If it's too deep, too wide, or too tall for your space, it doesn't make it onto the shortlist.
You'll also need to decide between hinged and sliding doors. Remember, hinged doors need swing space in front of the wardrobe. Sliding doors don’t, which can make a big difference if you're working with tight measurements.
And don't forget the aesthetics! As a freestanding wardrobe, things like colour, materials, and finishes will affect how the wardrobe meshes with the rest of the room.
Tip: If you wouldn’t feel confident ordering it today based on your measurements, it's not the one.
Step 5: Match the Internal Layout to Your Stuff
Look closely at what’s going on inside the wardrobes on your shortlist.
Check how much long-hanging there is for dresses, consider shelf depth, and look at drawer height and rail spacing too. These things will matter when you're using them every day.
Tip: Take a quick clothes and accessories inventory. If the layout can’t accommodate it comfortably, it’s the wrong one.
Step 6: Think Long-Term
Aside from what you own right now, you need to think about what you might own (or where you might be) a few years down the line. If possible, choose a versatile freestanding wardrobe rather than an overly fixed one.
Think adjustable shelves, removable drawers, and modular units.
Tip: 10–15% of the wardrobe should be empty when you first set it up. If it’s full on day one, you’ll outgrow it fast.
Freestanding Wardrobes NZ
Freestanding wardrobes work best when they’re planned properly. Double-check your measurements, see what's available, and choose what suits your space and your clothes.
At NZ Wardrobes, we offer a range of free standing wardrobe options to help you create a complete setup and organise your bedroom well. Check our gallery for inspiration or get in touch for a chat!